RNY Pros and Cons

As with any bariatric surgery, the RNY carries a list of Pro's and Con's which you need to be aware of before you take the plunge.

Pro's

1. Rapid weight loss which is sustainable once your excess weight is lost

2. Suitable surgery for those who need to lose 5 stone or more

3. Control is gained over sugary food consumption because of the dumping syndrome experienced with excessive intake of these types of foods.

4. The surgery is totally reversible because none of the intestine or stomach is physically removed. If complications arise at any time following the procedure a skilled surgeon can reattach all the bypassed organs and you will be back to having a 'normal' digestive system again.

Con's

1. Dumping Syndrome (follow the link for a more detailed description of this)

2. Rapid weight loss can cause more skin sagging although this can be argued that you will have the same sagging no matter how fast you lose the weight.

3. A feeling of loss of control over quantities consumed, although this is also probably a 'pro'.

4. Constipation - Many RNY patients experience extreme constipation following the procedure. Laxatives are frequently needed to prevent this.

5. Vitamin supplements needed for the rest of your life. Possibly injections of Vitamin B12 also needed depending on the length of the bypass and your ability to absorb it via your oral intake.

6. Six monthly blood tests for the rest of your life to make sure that you are nutritionally healthy.